After Breakfast we will visit Takin Mini zoo. The Takin Mini Zoo is located in North of Thimphu, Bhutan, dedicated to the conservation and display of the Takin, the National Animal of Bhutan. The zoo provides a habitat for these unique animals, which are known for their distinctive appearance, combining features of both goats and cows. In Buddhist history, the Takin is often associated with a legend involving the great Buddhist master, Lama Drukpa Kinley, also known as the “Divine Madman”. According to the story, Lama Drukpa Kinley was traveling through the region of Bhutan when he encountered a group of people who were mourning the death of a cow. To help them, he performed a miraculous act. Lama Drukpa Kinley is said to have asked for the cows’ bones and then, using his spiritual powers, transformed the bones into a new creature. This creature was the Takin, which possesses the body of a cow and the head of a goat. The Takin was created as a symbol of compassion and to provide substance for the people of Bhutan.
This legend not only highlights the Takin unique physical characteristics but also emphasizes its significance in Bhutanese Culture and spirituality. The Takin is revered as a national symbol, embodying the connection between the people and their natural environment, as well as teachings of Buddhism.
Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School), where a six-year training course is given in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Also visit the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, where the medicinal herbs abundant in the kingdom are compounded and dispensed.
Visit the National Memorial Chorten. Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who had wanted to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity, originally envisaged the building of this landmark. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the father of modern Bhutan”), and a monument to peace. Visit the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and privately owned crafts shops, which offer a wide range of handcrafted products, including the splendid thangka paintings and exquisitely woven textiles for which Bhutan is famous. The Folk Heritage and National Textile Museums opened in 2001.
Also visit t later afternoon we will visit Craft Bazar, Traditional Handmade Paper Factory, and weaving center.
In the evening scroll around Centenary farmers vegetable market and visit Archery playground.
Overnight: Hotel in Thimphu (Lunch/Dinner included)
Suggestion hotels: Hotel Norkhil/Druk Hotel 4* or Le Méridien 5*
